The first player to place three “F’s” or three “O’s”
in a row wins. After making the simple tic tac toe game board, explain to your partner that
he can gain a square if he gives an example of a fact or an opinion. If a player names a fact,
he can place an “F” in a square. If a player states an opinion, he can place
an “O” in a square on the board.
As you play, have your child prove his factual statements. You might ask, “How could
you prove that this statement is true?” Or “What sources would you check to
see whether a statement is true?” (For example, you might have encyclopedias, record
books such as the Guinness Book of World Records, or other reference
materials on hand while playing).
Likewise, ask your child about the opinions he comes up with when he is creating an “O”
square. You might ask, “Why is this statement an opinion?” Talk about some of
the common forums where people express opinions, such as writing letters to the editor of
a newspaper, casting a vote for a political candidate, or participating in an argument. You
might also talk about the opinions of people your child knows. For example, do two people
share the same taste in clothes, music, or books? In addition, ask your child what comparisons
we can make based on facts. For example, the height, weight, and eye color of people we know
can be compared by using facts.
